Make magical Christmas memories in Mansfield this festive season

With a wonderful programme of festive entertainment for all ages, there are plenty of opportunities to get together, enjoy some seasonal sparkle and make special memories in the run-up to Christmas.

At Mansfield Palace Theatre, audiences can look forward to an enchanting evening of traditional music, song and dance with A Celtic Christmas on Wednesday 11 November. Promising a magical celebration of the festive season, this uplifting performance is the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit.

For those who prefer their festive entertainment a little more nostalgic, Neil Sands’ Christmas Memories arrives on Friday 13 November. This heartwarming matinee concert is packed with seasonal favourites, familiar tunes and plenty of Christmas cheer, offering a lovely afternoon of festive entertainment.

And, of course, no Christmas in Mansfield would be complete without a trip to the Palace for its spectacular annual pantomime!

Audiences are invited to go to the ball with Cinderella, running from Saturday 21 November 2026 to Sunday 3 January 2027. Starring Nottingham-born Emmerdale favourite Rosie Bentham as Cinderella, alongside Mansfield’s favourite funny man Adam Moss as the hilarious Buttons, this magical family adventure promises everything you could wish for from a traditional festive pantomime.

Expect outrageous Ugly Sisters, a charming Prince, a magical Fairy Godmother, fabulous costumes, toe-tapping music and plenty of laugh-out-loud comedy as this much-loved rags-to-riches tale gets the full pantomime treatment. It's the perfect festive treat for all ages, so make sure your family has a ball!

Meanwhile, over at Mansfield Museum and Art Gallery, there's a magical programme of family entertainment guaranteed to delight younger visitors.

On Saturday 5 December, families can step into a world of puppetry and imagination with The Snow Queen, performed by Paul Batten of Theatrix Arts.

The Toy Maker is busy in his workshop, crafting toys for children, when suddenly his creations come to life! Together, they tell the enchanting story of Gerda and her brave quest to rescue her brother Kai from the clutches of the evil Snow Queen, who holds him prisoner in her glittering ice palace.

Featuring captivating puppets, changing scenery, music and sound effects, this wonderful performance brings the classic tale to life in a truly magical way. And the fun doesn't stop when the curtain comes down! Children will have the opportunity to meet the puppets before getting creative in a 30-minute workshop, where they can make their very own character puppet from the show.

There are two performances at 11am and 2pm, with the show lasting approximately 50 minutes, followed by the puppet-making workshop. Tickets are just £6 per person.

Little music lovers can also enjoy a very special festive treat with Beanbag Proms: The Night Before Christmas on Friday 18 December.

Performed by The Limelight Orchestra, in association with Theatre Royal & Concert Hall Nottingham, this magical musical adventure brings the much-loved Christmas story to life through live orchestral music, with plenty of festive favourites along the way.

Designed especially for children aged seven and under, this fun and interactive performance introduces little ones to the wonderful world of live orchestral music in a relaxed and welcoming environment. After the performance, families will even have the chance to get up close to the instruments and have a go at playing them themselves!

With two performances at 11am and 1pm, it's a wonderful opportunity to introduce younger children to live music and enjoy a festive family experience together. Tickets are just £5 per person, with everyone requiring a ticket except babies under one.

With so much festive entertainment on offer, there's no better time to make Mansfield part of your Christmas celebrations. Whether you're looking for a traditional pantomime, an afternoon of seasonal music or a magical experience to enjoy with the little ones, there's something for everyone this winter.

Book your Christmas treats now and make memories to treasure!